Automotive security is a booming business thanks to car thieves who always seem to find a way around the latest security measure. So it's a constant battle to thwart the professional car thief. Imports are particularly hot items to steal. So we took the opportunity to install TRCs TS-2000 "no-hands" security system into a 1997 Honda Accord SE.
The main feature of the TS-2000 is the revolutionary "hands-free" arming and disarming function. The driver simply approaches the vehicle with the remote in hand and the system automatically disarms itself without the use of the buttons on the remote. This is especially helpful if your hands are full or you are approached by someone looking to car jack you. No need to fumble around searching in the dark for the right button to lock or unlock the doors because the TS-2000 does it for you. This concept is not new in theory, as it appeared first in the late 1990s model Chevrolet Corvette as a simple keyless entry. However, this is the first aftermarket alarm system available to the public that uses this technology.
A distinguishing trait of the TS-2000 is the extremely thin remote that measures only two quarters thick. This slenderness gives it an almost transparent feel when you place it in your pocket. The cosmetic design of this remote incorporates the use of a polycarbonate face whose durability is second to none. Whereas remotes using plastic buttons tend to break over a period of time, the polycarbonate face will withstand everyday wear and tear and should last the lifetime of the alarm itself.
Flipping the remote over and removing the battery cover reveals a micro switch that turns the "no-hands" feature on or off. Having this option on the remote makes it very convenient for instances when you may be washing the vehicle or working nearby, constantly going in and out of "no-hands" operating range. No having to enter the car and find the switch to make the change. A simple flip of the switch on the remote and the function is inoperable. Good thinking, guys!
When it comes to the warranty, TRC displays a lot of confidence in their product. The warranty is as follows: lifetime replacement on all the components and three years labor if the unit is installed by a factory authorized dealer.
InstallationBasic installation of the TS-2000 alarm is as simple as any other aftermarket alarm system. A TRC authorized dealer should have no problem installing this alarm into most applications in a reasonable time (two to three hours). The install of the TS-2000 in the Honda Accord SE took approximately two and a half hours.
One installation feature worth mentioning is the OEM alarm disable function. This is simply a wire that connects to the factory disarm system located in the driver's door locking mechanism. This is something that most alarm systems of other manufacturers do not include. Although, installation of the OEM alarm disable did not work as anticipated in the Honda. This forced our installer to disengage the factory alarm system and left us relying strictly on the TS-2000 for security.
SubjectiveFor the most part, the TRC TS-2000 alarm performed as one would expect. The "no-hands" feature worked initially as stated by TRC. However, over the past two months of evaluation, the performance of mobile security system has been questionable. The "no-hands" operation has shortened its operating distance from a lengthy twenty feet, following installation, to a slight distance of six feet in its current state. This could cause a problem if you are in a situation such as a carjacking and immediate entry into the vehicle is necessary. The TS-2000 requires at least two seconds to activate the alarm once you are within range of the vehicle. Walking at a fast pace the car door can be reached within two seconds from a distance of fifteen feet, a delay that leaves you waiting for your car door to unlock.
Notwithstanding a couple of question marks, all in all, the TRC TS-2000 performed well. We had some minor difficulties with the "no-hands" feature and the OEM alarm disable, but as the technology is still new, there are some gremlins that can be worked out. For more information contact The Right Connections at 800.429.6200 or (fax) 800.429.6300.
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